Flood Zones: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do flood zones rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach participates in NFIP. FEMA flood maps govern SFHAs. Structures in flood zones require elevation certificates for major work. Substantial improvement rule (50%) applies.
View full Long Beach rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
The Specific Plan for Management of Flood Hazards (Ordinance 172,081) is the primary regulation governing development in LA flood zones. The Los Angeles Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) designates floodways, floodplains, mud-prone areas, and coastal high-hazard zones. LAMC 19.07 establishes fees for flood hazard compliance checks by the Bureau of Engineering.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP | Long Beach participates | City participates in federal flood insurance |
| Elevation Certificate | Required for new or substantially improved structures in SFHA | - |
| 50% Rule | Substantial improvement triggers full compliance | - |
| Flood Insurance | Required with federally backed mortgages in SFHA | - |
| Contact | (562) 570-6784 | - |
| Primary Law | - | Ordinance 172,081 (Specific Plan) |
| Compliance Fee | - | $273 per check (LAMC 19.07) |
| Flood Map | - | LA Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) |
| Zone Types | - | Floodway, floodplain, mud-prone, coastal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Long Beach?
Long Beach participates in NFIP. FEMA flood maps govern SFHAs. Structures in flood zones require elevation certificates for major work. Substantial improvement rule (50%) applies.
Do I need flood insurance in Long Beach?
NFIP: Long Beach participates. Elevation Certificate: Required for new or substantially improved structures in SFHA. 50% Rule: Substantial improvement triggers full compliance. Flood Insurance: Required with federally backed mortgages in SFHA.
Los Angeles FAQ
How do I check if my LA property is in a flood zone?
Check the Los Angeles Flood Hazard Map (LAFHM) through the Bureau of Engineering's website or request a flood hazard report. The Bureau charges $273 for a formal compliance check under LAMC 19.07. FEMA flood maps are also available through the NFIP.
Do I need special permits to build in an LA flood zone?
Yes. Development in any designated flood hazard area requires flood clearance from the Bureau of Engineering under Ordinance 172,081. You may need elevation certificates, floodproofing certificates, and compliance with both the city Specific Plan and NFIP requirements.
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